In 2024, an average of 11,000 Americans per day will be turning 65. There is also a growing number of people living alone. A recent survey of Medicare Advantage members found that one in five did not have anyone they could lean on in the case of an emergency. Emergencies increase the risk of harm for older adults living with impaired mobility, cognitive deficits, social isolation, and limited financial resources. Promoting health equity and age-friendly public health and health systems are priorities right now.  This presentation, led by Dr. Shawn Rossi and Dr. Kina White, will focus on the intersection of these topics with emergency preparedness, planning, and recovery.  

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe how Age-Friendly Public Health Systems support public health’s role in healthy aging and emergency preparedness
• Discuss how information from health equity initiatives can help hospital emergency planners
• Describe the importance of communication geared towards older adults and caregivers during a disaster